"I've heard so much about it from my dad – how difficult the stages are, how the conditions can change in an instant - from snow to rain or bright sunshine - and, of course, how you need nerves of steel for some of those mountain passes and hairpins.

"It's going to be a real thrill to take part in such a legendary event behind the wheel of a Renault Megane RS, which will be fitted with snow and studded tyres so I can get a more complete sensation of rallying around these stages."

Sainz Sr, 55, won the Dakar Rally for the second time last week with Peugeot.